Two key players could return for Phillies as playoffs loom

Two core pieces of Philadelphia Phillies offense could soon return 

Even though the Phillies have been without Turner and Sosa for a bit of time, they have done well in treading water until they return. Luckily for the team, both are progressing well and could be eligible to return before the end of the season. The Athletic's Matt Gelb reports that Sosa should be activated on Tuesday for the Phillies' three-game series versus the Miami Marlins, while Turner is progressing well and will face three minor league pitchers this week at Citizens Bank Park.

A potentially historic season for Trea Turner

Before going down with his hamstring injury, Turner was in the middle of the best season of his Phillies career. He led the National League in batting average at .305. Even after 14 days on the injured list, Turner holds a lead over Chicago Cubs second baseman Nico Hoerner, who sits at .299. 

If Turner manages to hold out in these last six games, he could become the first Phillies player in 67 years to win a batting title in the National League. Hall of Famer Richie Ashburn (1958) was the last to do it. 

The jolt Philadelphia Phillies need for playoffs

With the Phillies seemingly locking up the second seed in the National League, having both Turner and Sosa healthy and ready for the playoffs will give them the energy they need to secure their first World Series championship since 2008.

Getting Turner back will be especially interesting for manager Rob Thomson, given that Turner has been his leadoff hitter for most of the season. With Harrison Bader having success there, Thomson could look to slide Turner into the two hole and move everyone else down one, deepening an already deep lineup for the playoffs. The Phillies' 1-4 of Bader, Turner, Bryce Harper and Kyle Schwarber will give opposing pitchers trouble, especially when they also have to deal with the rabid fan base when playing at Citizens Bank Park.